Brighton football’s Tegan Kogler has been a major force on the Brighton defense all season long at Outside Linebacker. The entire Bulldog defense has been a major part of Brighton’s Playoff Run as the Bulldogs have reached the semifinal round where they will take on Belleville this Saturday. Kogler says the run in the playoffs has been an incredible experience. “The atmosphere of the playoffs has been unreal. Being able to play last Friday night with all my teammates in front of our city is sweet, especially with the success we have had so far,” Kogler said.
Being a linebacker has always been fun for Kogler. It also comes with a lot of responsibility, and he has responded to the task at hand. “Being a linebacker, you have a lot of responsibility. Dropping back into pass coverage and protecting the run, you always have to do your job, and that’s what I like about it,” Kogler commented.
Over the last two seasons, Kogler has been paired with Cole Riddle and Zach Pardonnet. Kogler says the two have helped him become a better linebacker as well as becoming a better football player. “I’m very thankful to Zach and Cole. Since my freshman year, they’ve both helped me in the weight room and on the field in many ways. They’re great leaders and mentors for me,” Kogler mentioned.
Kogler started playing football in 2nd grade and has always had a passion for the game he loved. “I started playing football in 2nd grade, and I was the worst kid on the team, but I still loved the game and everything around it. I loved being with my friends every day. I played for Brighton my whole youth career, and it was an amazing experience with great coaches,” Kogler stated.
Kogler always has a routine when preparing for a football game and says it’s always good to be prepared before the game. “I usually walk on the field about two hours before the game to get used to the weather and to take it all in. Then I listen to music and chill out before warm-ups and get in a good mood. I think to be calm before the game is really important so I can get locked in,” Kogler said.
Football has taught Kogler a lot during his time playing football and has learned a lot during his time playing the sport. “Football has taught me how to be a leader and also taught me how never to give up when things don’t go the right way. Football has also taught me that all 11 guys need to do their job to succeed if one guy messes up, the whole team does. It is truly a team sport,” Kogler said.